OUT-OF-PRINT & RARITIES SELECTED BY LIZARDSON & FRIENDS

Saturday, December 29, 2007

by HONEYBEAN (October 29, 2006)

The Watersons - Travelling For A Living (1965 BBC)

This is the only film made of the Waterson family - Norma, Elaine, Mike and cousin John Harrison - At The height of the British folk song revival in the sixties and of which they were important part. it was broadcast by the BBC in 1966The film explores their background - their roots are very firmly in Hull anad Yorkshire. The sea and the fishing tradition of the Humber are a vital source of inspiration. It shows them researching their songs, recording for Topic Records and working on various folk projects. It folows them as they travel around from club to club in their old van and return to their own popular club Folk Union One at the Bluebell in Hull.Mike says in the film ' There's so much enjoyment their among ourselves, the audience catch on to it.Many of traditional songs which the Watersons have revived and made their own are included in the film. "Three Score and ten" "The Diamond" "The Jolly Waggoner" "The Greenland Whale Fishery" "Jolly Old Hawk" "The Barley and The Rye" "The Oak and the Ash". All the songs are performed live.

Excellent find! I was born, raised and remained in Hull. Apart from the interesting folky music, I enjoy seeing how parts of Hull looked in the mid-sixties. My Mam used to go to some folk clubs around that time, maybe a bit earlier, so I'll do her a copy too.

Not sure if this was re-posted in response to my request a few days ago, if so thank you so much - very speedy! Either way, really looking forward to seeing this - downloading now, will report back later...Chris